Boise is the capital and most populous city in the state of Idaho. Yet, it often gets passed over for other destinations in the west. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway to Idaho or things to do in Boise, keep reading. I recently went on a girls’ trip to Idaho and will give you a full itinerary that includes activities, restaurants, and accommodations of things to do in Boise. All you have to do is make memories to last a lifetime. Here’s my weekend getaway guide for your trip to Boise.
Why Go to Boise
If you’ve never given Boise a second thought, let’s start there. Boise consistently ranks on all sorts of top 10 city and travel lists. It has a great downtown area. It’s an awesome place to raise a family. The city is considered one of the best places to retire due to its healthy lifestyle, climate, affordability. There are also a number of recreational options, so you’re guaranteed things to see and do. Every year, couples from all over the country enjoy a romantic getaway in Boise. Whether you’re young or old, single or committed, going with a partner or with your family, Boise has something for you!
Things to do in Boise
Check into The Grove Hotel
If you’re planning a getaway in Boise, book your stay at The Grove Hotel. With a reputation as the city’s premier hotel, you’ll be treated to a luxurious and personalized experience from the start. There are also many more incredible hotel offerings, this city has an option for anyone and any budget.
Head to the Saturday Markets
On Saturday mornings, downtown Boise plays host to both the Boise Farmer’s Market and the Capital City Public Market. Keep in mind that both of these markets are only open seasonally, but if you’re visiting during good weather, then this is one of the top things to do in Boise during good weather. With over 200 vendors between the markets, you are sure to find something unique.
Rent Free Bikes
The Grove Hotel is located in downtown Boise and provides free bike rental on a first-come, first-serve basis to all of its guests. To explore Boise in style, rent a cruiser or mountain bike from The Grove Hotel or other places around town, and hit the streets for all the things to do in Boise! My friend and I had the BEST time seeing Boise on a cruiser bike!
Bike to the Greenbelt
If you’re like me and don’t like to bike near vehicles and traffic, then biking on the Greenbelt is for you! The Greenbelt is the 25-mile-long bicycle and pedestrian path that links over 850 acres of parks and natural areas along the Boise River. This is the ideal place to start as you get used to biking in the city. It’s super easy and relaxing. Amongst the many parks in Boise, I recommend you visit the Ann Morrison and Esther Simplot Parks along the Greenbelt. The Boise River Greenbelt serves as the uniting ribbon that links these precious jewels-the properties given to the city in honor of some of Boise’s finest civic leaders. The parks are legacies of these remarkable women and their commitment to their community.
Wine Tasting in Boise
Yes, Boise has wineries! About 40 minutes from Boise lies Snake River Valley, an award-winning wine region with almost 40 wineries, most of them family-owned. Idaho is actually said to be the fastest-growing wine industry in the US. Lucky for you, there are plenty of wine tasting rooms (and restaurants) right on the Greenbelt. I recommend Telaya Wine Co. and Cinder Wines tasting rooms. Located in Garden City in the wine district, Cinder is an urban winery while Telaya is located along the Greenbelt. While you are in the area, stop at Push and Pour Cafe for a quick coffee jolt.
● Telaya Wine Co.
My friend and I biked over to Telaya, and were greeted by the owner, Earl Sullivan and his wife, Carrie. Telaya is a second career for both husband and wife. I love how Earl and Carrie run Telaya. All their staff are salaried with full benefits, including an annual education budget. Telaya offers two corporate retreats a year and the group has gone to places like Cabo and Italy. They believe in treating their staff so well that they don’t have to worry about their paychecks or paying their rents. This family run small business is my top pick for wine tasting on your weekend getaway to Idaho. Plus their wine consistently wins awards!
● Cinder
If I loved Telaya for its location right off the Greenbelt, I equally loved Cinder for its location off a quiet street (easy to bike to via the Greenbelt), with an expansive patio. Its interiors are industrial chic and what you would expect to find in a wine tasting room in California or Washington. Cinder is known for Viognier white wine made in Idaho. They get their wine from vineyards in Idaho and a few in Washington. If you prefer red wines, Syrah is their flagship red wine. It’s silky on the palette and intertwines with fruity and savory notes. Syrah and Viognier both thrive in the Idaho climate. I recommend the San Lucas Vineyard Rose of Cinsault, which is a wine from the Snake River Valley.
● Push and Pour
Push and Pour is a trendy, incredibly stylish cafe that offers coffee, tea and delicious breakfast options. Located right off the Greenbelt, it’s easy to bike to and offers spacious seating both inside and outside. I loved their Turmeric Ginger tea and the avocado toast.
Where to Eat in Boise
Eighth street in downtown Boise is the city’s hip epicenter. You’ll find colorful murals, trendy restaurants, breweries and shops. I was not only surprised at how lively downtown was, but also taken aback by the innovative, healthy food options and cocktail bars with mixologists. I expected to find these types of places in New York or California, not in Boise. When in Boise during your weekend getaway don’t miss dinner at Fork Restaurant. This is a farm-to-table restaurant that serves American dishes and craft cocktails in a vibrant environment. Some of the dishes we enjoyed in the lively outdoor patio included the Brussel sprouts and the Tomato Basil fondue, which were both incredible. Downtown, especially at night, reminded me of a cross between New Orleans’ Bourbon Street, Austin’s Sixth street and San Diego’s Gaslamp district!
Hiking in Boise
If you’re looking to get away from the city and experience the outdoors, you don’t have to go too far. You can find numerous hiking trails like Table Rock just 20 minutes away from downtown. Start at the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes Loop trail, stopping at the viewpoint and then continue on to Table Rock for sunset. You won’t want to miss the views of Boise downtown during golden hour, so add this hike to your list of things to do in Boise.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Boise
I had no idea what Boise would be like and frankly did not expect to enjoy the city much. What I found completely took me by surprise. The people are actually really friendly and seem to be genuinely curious about you. I absolutely fell in love with biking The Greenbelt, exploring the lively downtown, and tasting wines in the wine district. I now understand why so many people are moving to Boise from California, Washington and Utah. Idaho might just be home to the next Napa Valley 🙂 So…what are you waiting for? Are you ready for a weekend getaway to Idaho? Boise is the perfect spot whether you’re looking for something romantic, adventurous, or laid-back. Use my itinerary to play your next trip to this city!
Feature image credited to Preethi Chandrasekhar.
Preethi Chandrasekhar is an Indian American travel writer, photographer and speaker whose goal is to empower women and ethnic minorities to explore the outdoors. She offers destination guides and tips on her blog www.theeagertraveler.com. You can also follow her journey on social media on Instagram @eagertravele.
Published on October 25, 2024
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